Great Shearwater
Ardenna gravis
The Great Shearwater is a rare but notable visitor to British waters, typically seen during the summer and autumn months when it can be spotted offshore, particularly in the western and southern coasts. It is more commonly associated with the open Atlantic, where it can be found in large numbers during its migration.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Great Shearwater in the field.
At a glance, the Great Shearwater can be identified by its large size, long, slender wings, and distinctive white markings on its forehead and underparts, which contrast with its dark brown back and wings. Its tail is also long and pointed, helping to distinguish it from other shearwater species.
The Great Shearwater is larger than a Herring Gull, with a more slender build, making it a striking sight when seen in British waters.
The male Great Shearwater has a dark brown back and wings, with a white forehead, chin, and underparts, and a greyish-brown nape and neck, with no significant seasonal variation in its plumage.
The female Great Shearwater is similar to the male, with no notable differences in plumage, making it difficult to distinguish between the sexes based on appearance alone.
The Great Shearwater's call is a high-pitched, piercing cry, often described as a loud, sharp "kee-kee-kee" or "ka-ka-ka", which can be heard during its breeding season or when it is in large flocks.
The Great Shearwater is a pelagic bird that feeds on fish, squid, and crustaceans, often following ships and feeding on offal, and is known for its gliding flight style, using the wind and waves to cover long distances with minimal effort.
The Great Shearwater can be confused with the Sooty Shearwater and the Manx Shearwater, but can be distinguished by its larger size, longer wings, and distinctive white forehead and underparts, which are more pronounced than in the other two species.
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